The affectionate sentiments of esteem and approbation which are so good to
express towards me, on behalf of the Danbury Baptist Association, give me
the highest satisfaction. My duties dictate a faithful and zealous pursuit
of the interests of my constituents, and in proportion as they are persuaded
of my fidelity to those duties, the discharge of them becomes more and more
pleasing.

Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between man
and his God; that he owes account to none other for his faith or his
worship; that the legislative powers of the government reach actions only,
and not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the
whole American people which declared that their legislature should `make no
law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free
exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between church and
State. Adhering to this expression of the supreme will of the nation in
behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sincere satisfaction
the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore man to all of his
natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his
social duties.

I reciprocate your kind prayers for the protection and blessings of the
common Father and Creator of man, and tender you and your religious
association, assurances of my high respect and esteem.